Southwest Tennessee Community College receives Assisi Foundation of Memphis grant

Southwest Tennessee Community College has received a $500,000 grant from the Assisi Foundation of Memphis in support of its Southwest Entertainment Production Initiative. The Southwest Entertainment Production Initiative is the college’s effort to enhance and revitalize its Communication, Graphic and Fine Arts department. The Assisi Foundation of Memphis grant will partially fund Phase Two of the Southwest Entertainment Production Initiative, which will renovate the Union Avenue Campus theater and include new equipment and technology.

According to an article on Southwest Tennessee Community College’s website, Patsy Fancher, who serves as the Chair of the Department of Communication, Graphic and Fine Arts, was quoted as saying of the new grant, “This grant marks a turning point for our program. The theatre has long been a space where our students discover their voices, build confidence, and bring powerful stories to life. With this funding, we will create a safer, more modern, and inspiring environment that matches the talent and dedication of our students, our faculty, and the Memphis arts community. On behalf of the theatre program, our students, and the countless future performers who will grace our stage, thank the Assisi Foundation for believing in our vision.”

The overall goal of the Southwest Entertainment Production Initiative is to provide a boost to the area’s creative economy. Through partnerships, dual-enrollment opportunities, and internship opportunities, in addition to the major renovations and enhancement of the Department of Communication, Graphic and Fine Arts, the college aims to create a pipeline into the growing creative talent industry in Memphis.

Tracy D. Hall, president of Southwest Tennessee Community College, said, “Southwest Tennessee Community College is grateful to The Assisi Foundation for their investment in our college, and our students. This initiative prepares students for in-demand careers in the entertainment industry and positions Southwest as a hub for innovation and talent development for our region’s growing entertainment industry.”

The total cost of the Southwest Entertainment Production Initiative is expected to be around $4 million. Phase One of the project launched with a $1.5 million Tennessee GIVE 3.0 grant with the goal of renovating and re-outfitting the college’s recording studio.

For more information about Southwest Tennessee Community College, visit the school’s website.